Born in 1857, Edward Clark Potter worked as an assistant to renowned sculptor Daniel Chester French and went on to create dozens of memorial, animal and heroic statues in American cities. He is most famous for designing the marble lions that guard the entrance of the New York Public Library.

The Lewis and Clark Exposition was hosted by the city of Portland from June 1 to October 15, 1905. Covering over 400 acres, the fair showcased exhibits from various nations and states, and it promoted the economic potential of the Pacific Northwest region.